So you want to go to Bali, the source of all those droolworthy pictures you saw on Instagram, but have no idea where to start? Planning a trip can be a major pain in the butt, we know.

And it’s especially the case for Bali. After all, this island is just filled with too many surprises, and it requires tons of effort to craft the type of holiday that you want.

Well, fret not, because with this guide in hand, you’ll be set for the most satisfying Bali trip ever.

Whether you’re travelling with some active surfer buddies, your significant other, or kids who just won’t stop moving around – there’s bound to be something for you in this fantastic line-up of activities that we’ve curated.

We’ve even separated them into various categories to lessen the headache. Yes, no more staring at the endless blue links on a Google search page, or sieving through mountains of travel guides that go on forever: just pick what’s for you and jetset, go!

Here’s an overview of our complete guide to Bali’s attractions (Tap to scroll to relevant section)

FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS:

Mum: I’m gonna go buy some pillowcases. Dad: I want to go chill out on the waves. Friends: Hey let’s go hike up Mount Batur and kill ourselves doing it! Kids: Can we pleaseeee go to the waterpark? You: GAAAAAAHHH why can I never do what I want to do on a holiday?? Baby: Goo goo gah gah.

Travelling with a group, whether with family or friends, can sometimes be a huge pain. It’s especially so when you’re not completely aware of what is available to you!

Well, with the following list of activities in hand, so what if you don’t feel like doing what the rest of your travel partners want to do? We’ve laid out all the options you need to ensure that every member of the group is satisfied.

The Sacred and Secret Canyon of Sukawati isn’t so much a secret anymore, but this place is just too beautiful to miss.

Photo via imdhendra

The canyon features uniquely shaped rock formations that are dyed with beautiful shades of colours as the water reflects light onto them. We’re pretty sure you’ll get a National Geographic-worthy picture here no matter how and where you press the shutter from.

1-2. Visit a hidden waterfall – Peguyangan Waterfall, Nusa Penida

Peguyangan Waterfall on Nusa Penida isn’t a towering vertical torrent of water like the jungle falls in central Bali. Instead, it’s a series of short, cascading spring fountains that eventually make their way over a steep ravine and into the sea.

Away from the ravine, the cascades make a great place for all to enjoy a ‘natural spa’, and a massage from the fast flowing waters as they burble over the shallow ledges and pools.

Photo via ikbalalex, m_magetsari

Reaching the springs involves a descent down narrow stairs against the wall of the ravine. After some 460 steps, the gorgeous sight of the cascades is both exhilarating and relieving.

Read more:

Getting There: This waterfall is tricky to find – a lot of the locals don’t even know it. To visit Peguyangan, arrange a tour with a knowledgeable Penida tour operator, or hire a private driver on the island who knows how to reach this hidden paradise. Coordinates here

Note: Do note that you need to wear a sarong here. Bring your own or rent it onsite for Rp. 10,000 (approximately USD $0.66)

1-3. Visit a hidden gem in a village – Bamboo Chocolate Farm

Don’t look down on the possibilities of exploring Bali’s traditional villages: you might find gems like the Bamboo Chocolate Farm by Big Tree Farms in Ubud.

Photo via life in travels

Walk through the bamboo cathedral, the largest bamboo building in the world, or sign up for the chocolate tours – those with a sweet tooth will love being walked through the steps required to make organic chocolate.

Has that changed your mind about including hidden gems of traditional Balinese villages in your itinerary? Just make sure your plans are not entirely filled with villages after you discover these untouched temples, caves, and giant wishing tree.

1-4. Indulge in hot springs with a view – Toya Devasya Hot Springs

Are you craving for a luxurious hot spring experience? Toya Devasya in Kintamani has earned a reputation as one of the most upmarket places to submerge your bones in.

Photo via andraaditya

Set in elegant landscaped gardens, the pools offer immaculate facilities and the waters are clear blue and odourless – no sulphur gases here!

Also, Kintamani in the island’s northeast is a spectacular highland region where adventure is the name of the game. Spend the day hiking up the dramatic slopes of Mount Batur or just sipping cocktail overlooking Lake Batur, then ease your muscles in the curative powers of Toya Devasya’s soothing waters – the perfect luxury remedy!

Read more:

1-5. Watch a theatrical tribute to Indonesia – Devdan Show

It can be hard to find suitable activities to do when you have a family in tow, but that’s just why we love Bali – for its quirky activities that will keep even the naughtiest kid entertained.

Enjoy dance with a twist at the Devdan Show, a one-of-a-kind performance that was partly designed by stage and artistic directors of Cirque du Soleil. Here, modern and traditional elements come together to form a unique 90-minute theatrical and dance tribute to Indonesia – and you don’t even have to leave Bali to experience all of it!

Everything from fire to colourful kites appear on the stage, and you won’t have to worry about not understanding what’s going on – as performers communicate the stories via physical signs.

1-6. Enjoy a luxury resort on a day pass – InterContinental Bali Resort

You don’t always have to bust your budget to enjoy the jaw-dropping facilities that luxury resorts have to offer. At InterContinental Bali Resort, buying a day pass will give you access to all five of their huge swimming pools – including a stately Balinese-style pool and kids’ pools for the little ones.

Photo via michael j gallagher

While your children splash around in supervised pools, parents can make use of precious free time to keep in shape – gym and spa passes are available for access to the resort’s best workout and relaxation facilities.

Day trippers can also purchase a Gym Pass for Rp150,000 (approximately USD $11), and a Gym and Spa Pass for Rp 250,000 (approximately USD $18)

For full access to all the above facilities, a combination pass costs Rp300,000 (approximately USD $22)

1-7. Enjoy extreme sports – Flyboarding at Nusa Dua

Now’s the chance to show your kid that you really are Superman. The newest watersport out there, flyboarding, has made flying a reality for man – by wearing boots connected to a board, which is then connected to a water hose, you can be propelled to as high as 15 metres!

1-8. Visit a Safari! – Bali Marine Safari Park If your family prefers getting active together instead of being artsy fartsy, there’s always the Bali Marine and Safari Park (read our fun-filled experience here!). Get up close (and we mean cloooose) to wild safari animals such as elephants, rhinos, zebras and many more.

The night safari ride will give your kids a chance to work out their vocal cords as tigers leap atop your caged vehicle. And for the fainthearted children, there’s the day safari and educational animal shows, where learning doesn’t have to be a chore.

1-9. Check out abandoned places – Abandoned plane in South Kuta

It’s hard not to believe in ghosts when you’re in a place as otherworldly as Bali. To that effect, there’ve been creepy stories floating around about Bali’s dilapidated locations, which have been abandoned by civilisation.

Photo via rishakuu, Fashionferno

In Kuta alone, two mysterious abandoned planes have been sighted. Are you game for exploring the wrecks?

We aren’t, but we’re not going to stop you crazy people from traversing the (imagined?) horrors of these abandoned places in Bali.

Read more:

Abandoned plane in South Kuta

Getting There: The abandoned plane is located in South Kuta, along the Jalan Nasa Dua Selatan road. It is a 5-min drive an 40-min walk from Pandawa Beach. Coordinates here

1-10. Go on a hidden farm tour – Sari Segara Silkworm Farm

It’s time to discover your hidden talent at cloth-making! You’ll get to learn about all the processes that occur behind the production of this revered fabric at the Sari Segara Silkworm Farm.

Photo via Harry Sutama, Nina S and Gladys R

That’s not all – you’ll even get the chance to try and weave your own unique silk, and peruse the completed collection of beautiful fabric at the in-house art shop.

This is just one of the many unique farms hiding out in Bali. You’ll be awed by the traditional vineyard and underwater coral farm – don’t be too surprised when your child’s new dream is to be a farmer.

1-11. Visit a majestic sea temple – Pura Luhur Uluwatu

You can’t say you’ve been to Bali without visiting Pura Luhur Uluwatu, a sea temple in Uluwatu that’s known for its cliff-top views at sunset. Tons of tourists flock to the temple’s coastal location in the early evenings to grab a good spot, and that’s not all that they’re there for.

Photo via Suphakaln Wongcompune

The temple is also famed for the Kecak Fire Dance performances that are held there, as well as the resident monkeys, who won’t hesitate to abscond with a slipper of yours.

You’ll be surprised at how beautiful traditional temples can be, but don’t take our word for it – check out these seaside temples, for you really have to see it to believe it!

Read more:

Getting There: Pura Uluwatu is located in Pecatu Village, Kuta sub-district, Bandung regency about 25km south of Kuta and it usually takes an hour’s journey. A hired driver or post-pickup is recommended as public transport is unavailable. Coordinates here.

The perfect time to arrive at Uluwatu Temple would be at 4pm to give you ample time to get a good seat and a ticket for the Kecek Dance at Rp. 100,000 (USD $8.10).

The performance is held at Uluwatu Temple, with an entrance fee of Rp. 30,000 (USD $2). Sarongs will be provided for entry to the temple.

1-12. Try out water activities suitable for all – Bali Seawalker

If you’ve always stared forlornly at your friends splashing around in the sea just because you’re not a swimmer, the time has come for you to shine.

Surfing and diving might be prime activities in Bali, but that doesn’t mean only swimmers get to have all the fun – Bali Seawalker’s unique helmet allows even non-swimmers to experience marine life, and right from the ocean bed!

1-13. Check out bizarre balinese festivals – The Monsters Parade While many tourists tend to avoid Bali during Nyepi (Balinese New Year), we beg to differ – this time of the year is when you get to see witness Bali’s intricate culture in its full glory.

Photo via Theatlantic

During this time, grand processions march down the street, complete with gigantic figures – known as the ogoh-ogoh – which are made to scare away evil spirits, creating a majestic (and slightly scary) view.

If you don’t want to leave the gorgeous comfort of your villa for your urban home, why not bring the villa back with you? Bungalow Living features a large selection of homeware and decor that look like they come right out of your favourite villa.

Photo via redmelimelo

Better yet, they’re all really affordable, so you’ll definitely get the most out of your budget… and if too much shopping makes your knees weak, just stretch them out at the establishment’s in-house cafe.

Doesn’t sound appealing? You’ll just have to bear with it, as Bali doesn’t just sell homeware. Beach fashion, accessories, art… Take your pick through our complete shopping guide to Bali – surely you aren’t going to miss any one of them?

1-16. Go out with a splash at surf camp – Rapture Camp

Water babies will love it at Rapture Camp, where everyone from beginners to monsters who ride the waves can enjoy surfing like nobody’s business – thanks to lessons ranging from beginner to professional levels.

After a long day out surfing, you can chill out at the pool table with surfing enthusiasts from all over the world. And enjoy a good night’s sleep in a Balinese bungalow that’s both comfy and pretty. Now, that’s what we call a whole package!

1-17. Go snorkelling in the deep blue – Wreck of the USAT Liberty and The Coral Garden

Diving and snorkelling are one of the must-dos in Bali, which is known for having a large diversity of marine life within its surrounding waters.

We totally understand why – how can you possibly miss brushing shoulders with rare marine life as you dive into the majestic wreck of an American warship, and look for Nemo in a gorgeous underwater temple at Tulamben?

Read more:

Getting there: From Denpasar Airport or the Kuta region, Tulamben is between 3 and 3.5 hours drive depending on traffic.Recommended Tour Operators: There are numerous dive shops located along Tulamben Beach strip, including Matahari, Mimpi Tauch Terminal, and Liberty Dive. All of them will happily take snorkellers on guided tours of the wreck.

Useful tips (Tap to expand)

Try for a personal guide who can take you at a time when there are less SCUBA divers in the water. Try at least one guided tour to familiarise yourself with the site before exploring on your own. The guides are great at pointing out hard-to-spot-marine life.

Reaching the snorkel site: Most of the beachfront resorts, such as Mimpi, Matahari and Tacuh Terminal are positioned right in front of the Coral Garden. Walk along the beach behind the resorts, step out into the water and you should land almost directly on top of the reef!

Every kid gets to fulfil their dream of being a pirate at this unique, pirate-themed restaurant.

While parents relax in a treehouse with a tasty burger, children will be led on activities around authentic-looking pirate ships – can you already see your kid swinging across the mast of a ship, shouting “Arrrr”?

2-4. Go to dessert heaven – Sundara Bali

Why have normal ice cream when you can get a fusion of Japanese and french dessert? Sundara Bali is a hotspot for dessert among those who like surprises – the chef, Eddy Dhenin, creates dishes that are inspired from his personal experiences from all over the world.

3. Cosy up to your friends or family at these stays

It’s always an adventure when you’re out with friends, and at the Mara River Safari Lodge – you and your friends will definitely have a “wild” time.

Photo via lisacowcher

Wake up every morning to zebras and rhinos grazing in your backyard, and toss a carrot or two to your favourite animal. Dine while the king of the jungle watches you from beyond a glass window, and if you’re looking for an authentic safari experience, this is it.

If animals aren’t your thing, fun times can still be had in all the unique accommodations in Bali – such as towering treehouses, floating water villas and majestic mountain-top villas.

3-2. For private family bonding moments in a villa – Sandi Kala Villas

If you’d prefer to have a more private time with your family, Bali has a myriad of unbelievably large family villas that will house even the largest family.

Sandi Kala Villas will have you living like a royal, with a quaint little pool that stretches around the villa like a river. There’s even a fire pit beside the water for your family to gather around and share stories at night!

Trust us, you don’t have to worry even if your entire extended family is coming along on vacation. Other than the incredibly budget-friendly 2-bedroom villas, Bali also has 3 and 4-bedroom villas, and villas with a private pool ready for your entire tribe.

3-3. Stay at a family-friendly resort – Prama Sanur Beach Bali

Great resorts have saved many a parent’s life from death by rowdy kids – and Prama Sanur Beach Bali is one of these perfect places to entrust your kids to while you have some time to yourself.

Photo via trinofiya

Other than a comfortably furnished kids’ club with necessities such as crayons and rocking horses, the resort also offers activities such as yoga, cooking class, basketball, and a family pool with tame water slides.

3-4. Go glamping – Sang Giri Mountain Tent Resort

Sang Giri Mountain Tent Resort is the perfect compromise between a friend who loves camping and a friend who just can’t give up on modern luxuries.

You’re free to enjoy close contact with nature in an elevated tent that features sweeping views of the rainforest in Jatiluwih. And you won’t have to worry about being uncomfortable because of the naturally cold air, modern toilet, and lavishly furnished room.

Still not convinced? Check out the list of glamping locations in Bali that we’ve found – can you believe that you can actually glamp in the comfort of air-conditioning?

FOR COUPLES:

We know Bali is an inherently romantic destination, but sunset at the beach isn’t your only choice. If you’re aiming to spice up a relationship or land a girl/guy during your trip, these activities will definitely push you closer to your goal.

1. Romantic things you simply have to do

1-1. Catch the sunset at a hidden beach – Melasti Beach

Instead of squeezing it out with the rest of the world for the exact same picture of the sunset at Kuta Beach and Tanah Lot – why not hide out at the scenic and quiet Melasti Beach?

Directions: Melasti Beach is along Jl. Padma and is a 13 minutes car ride away from Bali’s airport. Coordinates here.

Note: Melasti waterfall is seasonal. It disappears during the dry season. Thanks Riffa for the tip!

1-2. A genuine spa by the sea experience in Jimbaran – La Joya Spa

A minutes’ walk from Balangan Beach lays La Joya, home to one of the most amazingly located day spas in Jimbaran. Walk down the garden path, and stretch out beneath the thatched roof of the open air massage villa.

Melt away with an intimate view taking in coastal splendour of Jimbaran in all its glory. From ancient Ayurvedic massage to hot stone therapy, shiatsu and traditional Balinese and Thai massage – spa guests can also make use of the spectacular elevated plunge pool overlooking Balangan and the endless blue ocean beyond.

Address: Jl. Pantai Balangan, Jimbaran, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten BadungContact: +62 811-3990-048Opening hours: Daily from 9am to 6pm (Do call and make a reservation in advance!)Price: A one and a half hour Ayurvedic massage is $26, while the classic Balinese massage is $15 for an hour. An optional body scrub and hot shower at the end of your massage is just an additional $7.

1-3. Visit a unique bar – Mirror Lounge and Bar

Never has there been a bar more suited for a love story than the glass-roofed Mirror Lounge and Bar, where tons of young people dance the night away under the stars (literally).

Other than the skilled DJs who are bound to give your ears a treat, the bar also keeps things exciting with thrilling trapeze acts – instead of kissing under a boring old mistletoe this year, you can do it while the trapeze artists swing right above you.

1-4. Enjoy a rooftop bar – Jim’Bar’N Rooftop Bar

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who’s the highest of them all?

The answer is none other than the Jim’Bar’N Rooftop Bar, the highest rooftop bar in Bali, which is also known for its impressive menu of fresh seafood and tasty cocktail drinks. With its 360º never-ending view of the natural landscape and next-door position to the sky, even a promise to “pluck the moon and the stars” can’t help but sound more believable here.

1-5. Attend a fun workshop in Bali – Studio Perak

Bali has tons of couple-friendly activities available, but we think that a couple’s haven would definitely be Studio Perak – where you can learn how to craft Balinese-style jewellery with silver and semi-precious stones.

Photo via An Epic Education

You can even choose one to take home with you – and with these dainty little treasures, a proposal may even be in the works…?

Or, if you can already envision the twisted mess that your clumsy hands are bound to come up with, fear not – instead of a gift, why not give your beloved an experience he/she can never forget?

And if you’re interested, there are many other workshops ready to be explored in Bali!

2. Dine in a romantic restaurant

2-1. Enjoy la finer taste of life and go fine-dining! – La View

At La View, it really is all about the view – go back to basics in a fully bamboo-made, birdnest-shaped platform elevated high above the trees. If not, enjoy the royal treatment at a private dining area, floating atop an infinity pool facing an endless vista of greenery.

Photo via misscatherinemack

The surroundings aren’t the only Instagrammable part of this place – they also happen to have gorgeous desserts.

So if you have a significant other who is afflicted with the “standing-in-awkward-positions-for-twenty-minutes-for-a-picture-of-cake” syndrome, they’re bound to enjoy this place.

2-2. Dine under the stars and by the sea – Wantilan Agung, Hotel Tugu Bali

If you’re a fan of breakfasts in bed, you’ll love the Wantilan Agung at Hotel Tugu Bali, where you can enjoy a moonlit picnic under the stars – all while reclining in the comfort of a traditional bed facing the light ocean breeze.

2-3. Dine amidst incredible jungle views – Swept Away

Be the star of your own candlelit fairytale at Swept Away at the Samaya, a quaint restaurant located beside a flowing river – that will make every girl feel like a Rapunzel with her floating lights.

With a special 100-candle dinner service lighting up the greenery every night, and the never-ending sound of water passing you by, this is a place that was simply made for romance – just don’t get swept away by the sheer beauty of the place!

Of course, feel free to hang at any of these other romantic restaurants in Ubud instead – from classy piano accompaniments to a casual, elevated treetop restaurant, there’s something for everyone.

2-4. Have high tea like royalty: W Retreat & SpaWhen it comes to tea, you can’t go wrong doing it the Mad Hatter way – and W Retreat & Spa is probably the only place in the world where you can get away with drinking something that has the label “Drink me” on it.

Photo by o mark o

Enjoy the colourful world of Wonderland with bizarre and brightly coloured cakes and pastries – after stuffing yourself, you can even recline on a lounge chair at W’s pool for free!

For all the taitais (colloquial Chinese term for “rich wives”) out there – Bali has a myriad of wonderful high teas that will debunk high tea sessions’ image, as boring affairs in staid hotel restaurants. It’s time to go on some exci-tea-ng adventures!

If you and your partner are daredevils who prefer living on the edge (hur hur) – Karma Kandara is the place where living on the edge will become a beautiful experience instead of a scary one.

At this cliff-top resort, beauty and thrilling fun come together through its stunning infinity pool that give you views for miles and miles. Including the gorgeous hidden beach that’s only accessible via a steep tram ride downhill.

Bali’s stately luxury cliff-side resorts are almost becoming a staple in Asian celebrities’ weddings; we would say it’s getting too much, but we can’t, because how can you possibly resist these views? The upside is, there are affordable cliff-side stays for you to get in on the cliff-top action – count us in!

3-2. Sink into some beachfront luxury – Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

Beaches are the name of the game in Bali, which boasts of many different stretches of sandy white sand and crystal clear waters.

Photo via diana dos

At Samabe, you get to fully enjoy the beachfront experience, with wide villas facing a sweeping ocean view, a gorgeous chapel, beachfront gazebos – and even the option to dine privately in a cave, all while looking out into the crashing waves.

As tempting as it is to stay here forever and never leave, you’ll have to go if you ever want to try out these other gorgeous beach accommodations available. Looking at them, we honestly won’t be surprised if villa-hopping becomes a trend.

3-3. Experience romance in the forest – Black Penny Villas Ubud

So sandy beaches and ocean-side living aren’t doing it for you… Challenge accepted!

Photo via albeta02

Welcome to the all-encompassing greenery of Black Penny Villas, with its superior skills at romance. Flowers in the plunge pool, flowers in the bath, flowers on your bed, kissy swan towels… and all these against a stunning backdrop of forest views.

6-a. Nusa Islands Guide

A quiet holiday for those who want to get in touch with nature.

Other useful links for first-timers to Bali

If you’ve been inspired to make your first trip ever to the island of Bali, congratulations! Take a look at our guides to know all there is to know about this beautiful island before you embark on your adventure.

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us